Mr. O'NeillTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what assessment has been made of the implications of German unification for the strategy of forward defence.
§ Mr. Archie HamiltonWe expect forward defence to remain a central feature of NATO's strategy for deterrence. However, German unification may have implications for how it is implemented, which will need to be considered in the light of the defence and security arrangements that emerge from the two plus four negotiations. We welcome the opportunity for a fresh look at this aspect of our defence posture, to ensure that it is well fitted for the new security setting.